Madracis
Madracis is a genus of stony corals in the family Pocilloporidae. These corals are commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions of the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and Eastern Pacific. They are characterized by their branching, encrusting, or massive growth forms and are often referred to as “star corals” due to their star-shaped polyps.
Common Names
Madracis corals are commonly known as star corals, but depending on the species, they may also be called:
- Branching star coral
- Encrusting star coral
- Massive star coral
Characteristics
Madracis corals are typically small to medium-sized, with colonies ranging from a few centimeters to several meters in diameter. They are characterized by their distinct star-shaped polyps, which are the individual animals that make up the coral colony. The polyps have a ring of tentacles surrounding a central mouth. These corals are often brightly colored, with shades of orange, yellow, brown, and green being common.
Environments
Madracis corals are found in a variety of marine habitats, including reefs, lagoons, and seagrass beds. They are generally found in shallow water, but some species can tolerate depths of up to 50 meters. They prefer clear, well-lit waters with moderate currents.